Aston Martin
Rapide
Bentley
Arnage
Aston Martin Rapide vs Bentley Arnage: 2019 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Aston Martin Rapide comes out ahead of the Bentley Arnage on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Rapide
Overall
Sentiment is overwhelmingly positive regarding the vehicle's aesthetics, sound, and driving character, with it being described as "gorgeous," "beautiful," and "exhilarating." It is widely appreciated for its subtle, classy beauty and distinctive V12 exhaust note. As a used vehicle, it is frequently cited as a significant value proposition, with specific mentions of examples available for approximately $60,000 USD, representing an "ultra-luxury bargain." However, this positive ownership sentiment is heavily caveated with widespread acknowledgment of high maintenance costs, unpredictable reliability, and the necessity for specialized care. The consensus indicates deep satisfaction for enthusiasts who value emotional appeal and are prepared for the financial and practical realities of ownership, but it is not considered a carefree daily driver.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" version. The AMR performance variant is mentioned, but no comparative feedback on different model years (e.g., pre-facelift vs. post-facelift, Rapide S) is present in the data.
Known issues
- ⚠High and unpredictable maintenance costs: very frequent. Unreliable electronics and strange electrical issues: recurrent. General reliability concerns, requiring specialized care: very frequent.
Arnage
Overall
Owner sentiment is deeply bifurcated, split between profound appreciation for the vehicle's character and significant apprehension regarding its ownership costs and complexity. The Arnage is universally praised for its exquisite, hand-built craftsmanship, sublime highway comfort, and the visceral, powerful character of its 6.75L V8 engine, particularly in later "T" and "R" (Red Label) variants. Long-term owner reports describe it as a uniquely relaxing and authoritative grand tourer that reduces driver fatigue over long distances.
Best version to buy
Arnage T and Arnage R (Red Label): The "T" variant is highlighted for its increased power and performance. The "R" or "Red Label" is specifically and frequently recommended over the early "Green Label" BMW-engined cars.
Known issues
- ⚠Catastrophic running costs and complex repairs: Very frequent warnings about extremely expensive parts, labor, and the necessity of specialist service.
- ⚠Engine-specific problems (early models): Head gasket issues on early Arnage Red Label models. The BMW-sourced V8 in Green Label models is noted as less desirable and potentially less robust. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠General reliability and aging systems: As a 20+ year old complex luxury car, owners report that "everything" can and will go wrong, from electrical gremlins to major mechanical failures.
The verdict
The Aston Martin Rapide is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Bentley Arnage, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Bentley Arnage is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Aston Martin Rapide or the Bentley Arnage?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Aston Martin Rapide and the Bentley Arnage. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Aston Martin Rapide or the Bentley Arnage?
The Bentley Arnage seats more passengers than the Aston Martin Rapide on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Aston Martin Rapide is classed as a Fastback, the Bentley Arnage as a Sedan.
Which has better fuel economy, the Aston Martin Rapide or the Bentley Arnage?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Aston Martin Rapide or the Bentley Arnage?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Bentley Arnage than the Aston Martin Rapide. See the known issues comparison above.